Dwarf Red Banana Tree (Musa sp.)

Seasonal Information

Bananas prefer bright light conditions for 12 hours per day if possible. Constant warmth is also very important, with high humidity (above 50%). Night time temperatures of 67^oF and daytime temps in the 80’s; with good air circulation is ideal. Maintain humidity in dry environments by misting and placing it on a layer of pebbles or decorative stone in a tray filled with water. The Dwarf Red Banana can be grown in Hardiness Zones 8 and up. Otherwise, grow indoors primarily with visits outdoors when the above temperature regimes can be met.

Location and Exposure

Sun exposure will determine fruit growth and/or foliage color. Provide a full sun position for your banana plants to give them their best fruit production. Grow in a partially shaded area if aiming for decorative foliage that stays a deep, rich green color. Shelter from the wind is recommended.

Soil Preferences

Provide a sandy soil that is rich in organic matter so that drainage is good, but water holding and a consistent supply of nutrients can be achieved. If creating your own mix of soil, use sand, perlite, and compost or manure. Soil pH should be slightly acidic, within the 5-7.0 range. Adjust pH with Sulfur well before planting.

Planting Instructions

In Pots

Bananas have rhizomatous roots that grow from corms. They also can be fast growers, so size your pot accordingly. A minimum of 3X the size of the root ball at planting will eliminate the need for constant re-potting. Firm the soil around the root ball and do not bury the crown of the plant. Plant in a soil mix as prescribed above, and water well for the first few weeks. Do not overwater to the point where the soil becomes waterlogged. They will take up a lot of water and are heavy feeders. Fertilize at planting, preferably with an organic fertilizer.

In the Garden

Recommended spacing in a garden is about 4’ so as to create a stand, or patch of bananas. Plant in sandy, slightly acidic soil as above, with plenty of organic matter. Before winter, mulch heavily and prune the leaves back.

Watering

Provide consistent water and maintain high humidity, but avoid saturation or water logged soil. Water daily, sometimes twice per day in hot, dry climates. Do not let them fully dry out in between waterings.

Fertilization

Organic based fertilizers are best as they will release over time and not leach out because of the constant watering. Young plants want more nitrogen to help them grow fast. Once established, use a fertilizer with high Nitrogen and Potassium, 15:5:30 is a good formula, and fertilize monthly in the spring and summer. Water deeply after applying the fertilizer.

Diseases and Pests

Bananas are not subject to significant disease pests outside the tropics. Root rot will occur in cold, wet soil, and is by far the greatest disease threat to them. Symptoms of overwatering are leaves dying at the edges and turning brown. If the leaves turn yellow, they need more nutrients. Some insects that might attack your banana plant include the banana aphid, banana weevil, and coconut scale; and are all easily repelled with a mild organic insecticide or Neem oil.